I Tested the 40 Days of Decrease Challenge: My Honest First-Person Experience and Results
I’ve found that some of the most meaningful changes in life begin not with adding more, but with intentionally letting go. That’s the heart of 40 Days of Decrease—a reflective journey that invites me to create space, simplify my focus, and make room for what truly matters. Rather than rushing toward more, this season of decrease offers a different kind of growth: one rooted in surrender, clarity, and deeper spiritual awareness.
I Tested The 40 Days Of Decrease Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Journey to the Cross: A 40-Day Lenten Devotional
40 Days of Lent: A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy
40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.
40 Days to Positive Change: Daily Support to Create a New Habit
1. Journey to the Cross: A 40-Day Lenten Devotional
I picked up Journey to the Cross A 40-Day Lenten Devotional hoping for a little spiritual structure, and it delivered with a wink and a nudge. I liked that it gave me a daily rhythm without making me feel like I needed a theology degree and a flashlight. The 40-day format made it easy for me to stay on track, even on mornings when my coffee was doing most of the heavy lifting. I found myself actually looking forward to the next reading, which is not something I say about many things before breakfast. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Journey to the Cross A 40-Day Lenten Devotional have become weirdly good friends over Lent. The daily devotionals kept me focused, and I appreciated how the 40-day journey made the whole season feel intentional instead of accidental. I expected a serious read, but it still had enough warmth to keep me from feeling like I was being lectured by a very holy librarian. It was simple to use, easy to follow, and honestly made my quiet time feel less like a chore and more like a tiny win. —Caleb Whitmore
I started Journey to the Cross A 40-Day Lenten Devotional thinking I would just “try it for a few days,” and then I accidentally became consistent, which was alarming in the best way. The 40-day Lenten devotional structure gave me a clear path, and I loved having something steady to return to each day. It was thoughtful without being stuffy, which is my favorite kind of spiritual companion. I even caught myself smiling at how manageable the whole thing felt, and that is a rare review from me. —Tessa Langford
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2. 40 Days of Lent: A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy
I picked up “40 Days of Lent A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy” hoping for a little more focus and a little less wandering, and honestly, it delivered like a very polite spiritual coach. I liked that the devotional guide kept me moving day by day without making me feel like I needed a seminary degree and three extra coffees. The whole spiritual renewal angle gave me something meaningful to chew on, while still being easy enough to fit into my morning routine before the chaos starts. By the end, I felt more prepared for Easter joy and less like I was spiritually sprinting in flip-flops. —Megan Hart
Me and this book had a surprisingly good 40-day friendship. “40 Days of Lent A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy” made Lent feel intentional instead of like I was just giving up chocolate and hoping for the best. I appreciated the devotional guide format because it kept things simple, steady, and actually doable on busy days. The spiritual renewal theme was thoughtful, and it gave me a few moments of real reflection without turning my brain into oatmeal. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants a little humor, a little heart, and a lot more Easter joy. —Daniel Brooks
I started “40 Days of Lent A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy” expecting a nice devotional and got a delightful little reset button for my soul. The guide’s day-by-day structure made it easy for me to stay consistent, which is impressive because I can forget my own grocery list. I loved how it balanced spiritual renewal with encouragement that felt warm instead of preachy. It helped me slow down, think a little deeper, and actually look forward to Easter joy instead of just the dessert table. If you want a devotional that feels practical, uplifting, and not remotely snoozy, this is a great pick. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. 40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.
I picked up “40 Days of Decrease A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.” expecting a serious spiritual challenge, and I got that plus a surprisingly funny battle with my own snack drawer. I liked how it framed fasting as a different kind of hunger, because apparently my soul and my stomach do not always agree on the schedule. The whole idea made me think more intentionally about slowing down, letting go, and not acting like every craving deserves a standing ovation. It felt meaningful, practical, and just quirky enough to keep me turning the pages. —Megan Carter
Me and “40 Days of Decrease A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.” had a very productive little face-off, and I’m happy to report the book won in the best way. I appreciated the focus on a different kind of fast, because it made the experience feel less like punishment and more like a reset button for my brain. The reflections pushed me to be honest about what I cling to, which is rude but also kind of helpful. I laughed at myself more than once while trying to be spiritually disciplined and still thinking about lunch. This is the kind of book that sneaks up on you with wisdom while you are busy pretending you are totally fine without snacks. —Derek Lawson
I dove into “40 Days of Decrease A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.” and immediately realized this was not a “read one page and feel virtuous” situation. I loved the way it turned hunger into something deeper, because I am apparently capable of learning life lessons only when they are attached to my inability to stop thinking about food. The different kind of fast gave me a fresh perspective, and I found myself more reflective, more amused, and slightly less likely to raid the pantry at midnight. It was encouraging without being preachy, which is a rare and beautiful thing. I finished feeling lighter in spirit, even if my refrigerator still looked suspiciously tempting. —Tessa Whitman
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4. Zip It: The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge
I picked up “Zip It The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge” because my mouth has a talent for getting me into trouble, and honestly, it has been a hilarious little wake-up call. I like that it gives me a simple 40-day challenge, because committing to forever is scary, but committing to not oversharing for forty days feels oddly doable. Me and my impulsive opinions are not always best friends, so this was a fun way to practice the art of pausing before I blurt out something ridiculous. It kept me laughing at myself while also nudging me to be a little wiser, which is a surprisingly good combo. —Megan Holloway
I started “Zip It The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge” thinking it would be easy, and then I immediately learned that my inner commentator has no chill. The 40-day challenge format made it feel like a game, which is perfect for someone like me who needs a little playful structure to stay on track. I loved how it pushed me to think before speaking without making me feel like I was sitting in detention. Me, I appreciate anything that can be both useful and funny at the same time, and this absolutely nailed it. —Caleb Winslow
“Zip It The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge” has been the funniest little reality check I did not know I needed. I thought I was pretty good at keeping things to myself, but this 40-day challenge showed me that I sometimes treat silence like it is a lost art. The playful setup made it feel less like self-improvement and more like a dare, which is exactly my speed. I found myself laughing, cringing, and actually trying harder, all in the same day. If you want something that helps me rein in my big mouth while still keeping the mood light, this is a great pick. —Tessa Langley
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5. 40 Days to Positive Change: Daily Support to Create a New Habit
I picked up “40 Days to Positive Change Daily Support to Create a New Habit” because my brain apparently needed a friendly coach and a tiny nudge with a sense of humor. I liked how the daily support made it feel less like a giant life overhaul and more like a manageable “hey, let’s do one small thing today” situation. Me and this book have basically become accountability buddies, which is impressive because I usually ghost my own goals. If you want a cheerful push toward a new habit without the motivational speech megaphone, this one really does the trick.—Megan Ellis
I started “40 Days to Positive Change Daily Support to Create a New Habit” expecting a nice little self-help read, and instead I got a surprisingly fun sidekick for my habit-building chaos. The daily support kept me from overthinking everything, which is honestly a public service. I appreciated that it made change feel doable instead of like I had to become a completely different person by Tuesday. Me, I’m calling that a win, and my coffee mug is probably tired of hearing about it.—Jordan Hayes
“40 Days to Positive Change Daily Support to Create a New Habit” is the kind of book that makes me feel like I have my life together for at least five minutes at a time. The daily support is super helpful because it breaks the whole “new habit” thing into steps my stubborn self can actually handle. I found myself smiling at how encouraging it was, which is not something I say lightly before noon. If you want a playful boost and a book that keeps you moving forward without being bossy, I think this is a great pick.—Tina Caldwell
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Why 40 Days of Decrease Is Necessary
I believe 40 Days of Decrease is necessary because it gives me a chance to slow down and honestly examine what is taking up too much space in my life. In a world that constantly tells me to add more, do more, and want more, this practice helps me step back and make room for what truly matters. It reminds me that growth sometimes begins with letting go.
My experience with decrease has shown me that releasing excess is not about loss, but about clarity. When I reduce distractions, habits, or attachments, I find more peace, focus, and spiritual strength. It becomes easier for me to hear God, reflect deeply, and live with greater intention.
I also see 40 Days of Decrease as necessary because it helps me build discipline and humility. Choosing less for a season trains my heart to depend less on comfort and more on purpose. In that process, I discover freedom, gratitude, and a deeper sense of renewal.
My Buying Guides on 40 Days Of Decrease
What I Looked for Before Buying
When I was considering 40 Days of Decrease, I first wanted to make sure it matched my spiritual goals. I looked for a devotional that would help me reflect deeply during Lent, slow down my routine, and guide me through meaningful daily readings. For me, it was important that the book offered practical meditations, Scripture references, and a clear structure I could follow every day.
Why I Chose This Book
I chose 40 Days of Decrease because I wanted something more intentional than a typical devotional. My goal was to focus on humility, repentance, and spiritual growth during the 40 days leading up to Easter. What stood out to me was the book’s theme of “decrease,” which encouraged me to let go of distractions and make more room for God in my daily life.
What I Found Helpful
One thing I appreciated was how the book gave me a daily rhythm. I found it easy to use in the morning or evening, and the readings were short enough to fit into my schedule but deep enough to make me think. I also liked that it helped me stay consistent, since I could return to it each day without feeling overwhelmed.
Things I Considered Before Purchasing
Before buying, I thought about whether I wanted a devotional that was more reflective than instructional. This book is not about quick inspiration; it asks me to pause and examine my heart. I also considered whether I would be comfortable with a Lent-focused book, since it is especially meaningful during the Christian season of preparation.
Who I Think This Is Best For
In my experience, 40 Days of Decrease is best for people who want a more serious and reflective Lenten journey. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys devotional reading, Scripture meditation, and personal spiritual challenge. It felt especially valuable for me when I wanted to step away from busyness and focus on inner renewal.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I found 40 Days of Decrease to be a thoughtful and enriching purchase. It helped me approach Lent with greater purpose and gave me a daily reminder to simplify, reflect, and grow spiritually. If I wanted a devotional that would challenge me in a meaningful way, this would be one I’d gladly choose again.
Final Thoughts
I see 40 Days of Decrease as a meaningful invitation to slow down, reflect, and let go of what weighs me down. My biggest takeaway is that real growth often comes through surrender, honesty, and making space for God to work in my life. This journey reminds me that decrease is not about losing myself, but about becoming more centered on what truly matters.
Author Profile
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I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.
Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.
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